UK - Flash report, Production volume, 2020
Flash report, Production volume, 2020
Jan. Feb. Mar. Apr. May Jun. Jul. Aug. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec.
Flash report, December 2020
29 Jan. 2021
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK car production decreases 2.9% in December, decreases 28.5% in 2020
On January 28, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK car production for December decreased 2.9% over the previous year to 78,041 units. Passenger car production was down 2.3% to 71,403 units and commercial vehicle production was down 9.2% to 6,638 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 7.9% to 139,204 units.
Full-year production of 987,044 vehicles in 2020 represented a decrease of 28.5% from 2019. The passenger car production was down 29.3% to 920,928 units, commercial vehicle was down 15.5% to 66,116 units and engines were down 27.0% to 1,840,847 units.
Vehicle exports down 28.6% (y/y) to 786,931 units and domestic sales decreased 28.4% (y/y) to 200,113 units. The percentage of export was 79.7%.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "These figures, the worst in a generation, reflect the devastating impact of the pandemic on UK automotive production, with Covid lockdowns depressing demand, shuttering plants and threatening lives and livelihoods. The industry faces 2021 with more optimism, however, with a vaccine being rolled out and clarity on how we trade with Europe, which remains by far our biggest market. The immediate challenge is to adapt to the new conditions, to overcome the additional customs burdens and regain our global competitiveness while delivering zero emission transport. We will continue to work with Government to attract investment in battery production and supply chain transformation as we transition to smart and sustainable mobility, supporting jobs and driving economic growth nationwide. "
UK vehicle production figures
| Dec. 2020 | Jan.-Dec. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 71,403 | 6,638 | 78,041 | 139,204 | 920,928 | 66,116 | 987,044 | 1,840,847 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -2.3% | -9.2% | -2.9% | -7.9% | -29.3% | -15.5% | -28.5% | -27.0% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 54,618 | 4,319 | 58,937 | 83,860 | 749,038 | 37,893 | 786,931 | 1,122,147 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -11.9% | -11.5% | -11.9% | -16.0% | -29.1% | -17.8% | -28.6% | -29.1% | |
| % of Total | 76.5% | 65.1% | 75.5% | 60.2% | 81.3% | 57.3% | 79.7% | 61.0% | |
| Sales | 16,785 | 2,319 | 19,104 | 55,344 | 171,890 | 28,223 | 200,113 | 718,700 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | 51.3% | -4.6% | 41.3% | 7.7% | -30.4% | -12.2% | -28.4% | -23.4% | |
| % of Total | 23.5% | 34.9% | 24.5% | 39.8% | 18.7% | 42.7% | 20.3% | 39.0% | |
Flash report, November 2020
24 Dec. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
On December 23, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for November decreased 1.4% over the previous year to 114,848 units. Passenger car production was down 1.4% to 106,243 units and commercial vehicle production was down 1.9% to 8,605 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 8.2% to 189,883 units.
Vehicle exports down 0.2% (y/y) to 95,646 units and domestic sales decreased 7.2% (y/y) to 19,202 units. The percentage of export was 83.3%.
In the first eleven months of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 30.1% (y/y) to 908,785 units. The passenger car production was down 31.0% to 849,246 units, commercial vehicle was down 16.1% to 59,539 units and engines were down 28.2% to 1,701,632 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "Yet another decline for UK car production is of course concerning, but not nearly as concerning as the New Year nightmare facing the automotive industry if we do not get a Brexit deal that works for the sector. With just nine days to go, the threat of ‘no deal’ is palpable and the sector, now also reeling from the latest coronavirus resurgence, Tier 4 showroom lockdowns and disruption at critical UK ports, needs more than ever the tariff-free trading arrangements on which our competitiveness is founded. It is finally make or break time, as being forced to trade on WTO terms would be a hammer blow for many automotive businesses, workers and their families, so we must get a deal - and one that avoids the devastation of punitive tariffs for all automotive products, from day one. For the long-term survival of UK Automotive, there is quite simply no other option."
UK vehicle production figures
| Nov. 2020 | Jan.-Nov. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 106,243 | 8,605 | 114,848 | 189,883 | 849,246 | 59,539 | 908,785 | 1,701,632 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -1.4% | -1.9% | -1.4% | -8.2% | -31.0% | -16.1% | -30.1% | -28.2% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 90,597 | 5,049 | 95,646 | 115,317 | 694,201 | 33,708 | 727,909 | 1,038,282 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | 0.3% | -8.8% | -0.2% | -8.4% | -30.2% | -18.2% | -29.7% | -30.0% | |
| % of Total | 85.3% | 58.7% | 83.3% | 60.7% | 81.7% | 56.6% | 80.1% | 61.0% | |
| Sales | 15,646 | 3,556 | 19,202 | 74,566 | 155,045 | 25,831 | 180,876 | 663,350 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -10.4% | 10.1% | -7.2% | -7.8% | -34.3% | -13.1% | -31.9% | -25.2% | |
| % of Total | 14.7% | 41.3% | 16.7% | 39.3% | 18.3% | 43.4% | 19.9% | 39.0% | |
Flash report, October 2020
27 Nov. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decrease 18.7% to 116,940 units in October
On November 26, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for October decreased 18.7% over the previous year to 116,940 units. Passenger car production was down 18.2% to 110,179 units and commercial vehicle production was down 25.6% to 6,761 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 20.1% to 197,374 units.
Vehicle exports down 19.1% (y/y) to 95,233 units and domestic sales decreased 16.4% (y/y) to 21,707 units. The percentage of export was 81.4%.
In the first ten months of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 33.0% (y/y) to 793,937 units. The passenger car production was down 33.8% to 743,003 units, commercial vehicle was down 18.1% to 50,934 units and engines were down 30.1% to 1,511,749 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "These figures are yet more bad news for an industry battered by Covid, Brexit and, now, the unprecedented challenge of a complete shift to electrified vehicles in under a decade. While the sector has demonstrated its resilience, we need the right conditions to remain competitive both as a manufacturing nation and a progressive market. Yesterday’s Spending Review recognised the need to invest in a green industrial revolution, but this must be at globally competitive levels and equal to the scale of ambition to keep this sector match fit. Above all, we must have a Brexit deal, one with zero tariffs, zero quotas and rules of origin that benefit existing products and the next generation of zero emission cars, as well as a phase in period that allows this transition to be ‘made in Britain’."
UK vehicle production figures
| Oct. 2020 | Jan.-Oct. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 110,179 | 6,761 | 116,940 | 197,374 | 743,003 | 50,934 | 793,937 | 1,511,749 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -18.2% | -25.6% | -18.7% | -20.1% | -33.8% | -18.1% | -33.0% | -30.1% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 91,550 | 3,683 | 95,233 | 118,484 | 603,604 | 28,659 | 632,263 | 922,965 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -19.1% | -21.1% | -19.1% | -16.4% | -33.2% | -19.7% | -32.7% | -32.0% | |
| % of Total | 83.1% | 54.5% | 81.4% | 60.0% | 81.2% | 56.3% | 79.6% | 61.1% | |
| Sales | 18,629 | 3,078 | 21,707 | 78,890 | 139,399 | 22,275 | 161,674 | 588,784 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -13.6% | -30.4% | -16.4% | -25.2% | -36.2% | -15.9% | -34.0% | -26.9% | |
| % of Total | 16.9% | 45.5% | 18.6% | 40.0% | 18.8% | 43.7% | 20.4% | 38.9% | |
Flash report, September 2020
30 Oct. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decrease 4.5% to 122,335 units in September
On October 29, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for September decreased 4.5% over the previous year to 122,335 units. Passenger car production was down 5.0% to 114,732 units and commercial vehicle production was up 3.3% to 7,603 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 2.4% to 216,643 units.
Vehicle exports down 9.3% (y/y) to 92,445 units and domestic sales increased 14.0% (y/y) to 29,890 units. The percentage of export was 75.6%.
In the first nine months of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 35.0% (y/y) to 676,997 units. The passenger car production was down 35.9% to 632,824 units, commercial vehicle was down 16.8% to 44,173 units and engines were down 31.4% to 1,314,375 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "These figures are yet more grim reading for UK Automotive as coronavirus continues to wreak havoc both at home and in key overseas markets. With the end of transition now just 63 days away, the fact that both sides are back around the table is a relief but we need negotiators to agree a deal urgently, one that prioritises automotive, enhances innovation and supports the industry in addressing the global threat of climate change. With production already strained, the additional blow of ‘no deal’ would be devasting for the sector, its workers and their families."
UK vehicle production figures
| Sep. 2020 | Jan.-Sep. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 114,732 | 7,603 | 122,335 | 216,643 | 632,824 | 44,173 | 676,997 | 1,314,375 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -5.0% | 3.3% | -4.5% | -2.4% | -35.9% | -16.8% | -35.0% | -31.4% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 87,533 | 4,912 | 92,445 | 132,202 | 512,054 | 24,976 | 537,030 | 804,481 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -9.7% | 0.3% | -9.3% | -3.3% | -35.2% | -19.5% | -34.6% | -33.8% | |
| % of Total | 76.3% | 64.6% | 75.6% | 61.0% | 80.9% | 56.5% | 79.3% | 61.2% | |
| Sales | 27,199 | 2,691 | 29,890 | 84,441 | 120,770 | 19,197 | 139,967 | 509,894 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | 14.5% | 9.2% | 14.0% | -0.8% | -38.7% | -13.0% | -36.1% | -27.2% | |
| % of Total | 23.7% | 35.4% | 24.4% | 39.0% | 19.1% | 43.5% | 20.7% | 38.8% | |
Flash report, August 2020
28 Sep. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decrease 42.7% to 55,954 units in August
On September 25, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for August decreased 42.7% over the previous year to 55,954 units. Passenger car production was down 44.6% to 51,039 units and commercial vehicle production was down 11.5% to 4,915 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 35.1% to 106,398 units.
Vehicle exports down 40.6% (y/y) to 45,790 units and domestic sales decreased 50.8% (y/y) to 10,164 units. The percentage of export was 81.8%.
In the first eight months of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 39.2% (y/y) to 554,662 units. The passenger car production was down 40.2% to 518,092 units, commercial vehicle was down 20.0% to 36,570 units and engines were down 35.2% to 1,097,732 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "These are increasingly disturbing times for UK car makers and suppliers with the coronavirus crisis weighing heavily on the sector. Companies are bracing for a second wave with tighter social and business restrictions making the industry’s attempts to restart even more challenging. The UK industry is fundamentally strong and agile, and the measures announced yesterday by the Chancellor are welcome and essential, although we await more details of how they will work for all businesses and crucially large manufacturers. Companies need to retain skilled jobs and maintain cashflow and we may need more support to boost business and consumer confidence later this year. Moreover, with fewer than 100 days until the Brexit transition period ends, we need urgent agreement of an ambitious free trade deal with our largest market to avoid the second shock of crippling tariffs."
UK vehicle production figures
| Aug. 2020 | Jan.-Aug. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 51,039 | 4,915 | 55,954 | 106,398 | 518,092 | 36,570 | 554,662 | 1,097,732 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -44.6% | -11.5% | -42.7% | -35.1% | -40.2% | -20.0% | -39.2% | -35.2% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 43,244 | 2,546 | 45,790 | 68,335 | 424,517 | 20,064 | 444,581 | 672,279 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -41.1% | -29.6% | -40.6% | -34.1% | -38.8% | -23.2% | -38.2% | -37.6% | |
| % of Total | 84.7% | 51.8% | 81.8% | 64.2% | 81.9% | 54.9% | 80.2% | 61.2% | |
| Sales | 7,795 | 2,369 | 10,164 | 38,063 | 93,575 | 16,506 | 110,081 | 425,453 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -58.3% | 22.3% | -50.8% | -36.9% | -46.0% | -15.8% | -42.9% | -30.8% | |
| % of Total | 15.3% | 48.2% | 18.2% | 35.8% | 18.1% | 45.1% | 19.8% | 38.8% | |
Flash report, July 2020
28 Aug. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decreases 19.7% to 90,930 units in July
On August 27, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for July decreased 19.7% over the previous year to 90,930 units. Passenger car production was down 20.8% to 85,696 units and commercial vehicle production was up 3.6% to 5,234 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 10.6% to 176,377 units.
Vehicle exports down 16.1% (y/y) to 75,167 units and domestic sales decreased 33.4% (y/y) to 15,763 units. The percentage of export was 82.7%.
In the first seven months of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 38.8% (y/y) to 498,708 units. The passenger car production was down 39.7% to 467,053 units, commercial vehicle was down 21.2% to 31,655 units and engines were down 35.2% to 991,334 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "As key global markets continue to re-open and UK car plants gradually get back to business, these figures are a marked improvement on the previous three months, but the outlook remains deeply uncertain. With the sector now battling economic recession as well as a global pandemic, it has neither the time nor capacity to deal with the further shock of a ‘no deal’ Brexit. The impact of tariffs on the sector and the hundreds of thousands of livelihoods it supports would be devastating, so we need negotiators on both sides to pull out all of the stops to ensure a comprehensive free trade deal is agreed and in place before the end of 2020."
UK vehicle production figures
| Jul. 2020 | Jan.-Jul. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 85,696 | 5,234 | 90,930 | 176,377 | 467,053 | 31,655 | 498,708 | 991,334 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -20.8% | 3.6% | -19.7% | -10.6% | -39.7% | -21.2% | -38.8% | -35.2% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 72,262 | 2,905 | 75,167 | 110,037 | 381,273 | 17,518 | 398,791 | 603,944 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -16.8% | 4.8% | -16.1% | -6.5% | -38.5% | -22.2% | -38.0% | -38.0% | |
| % of Total | 84.3% | 55.5% | 82.7% | 62.4% | 81.6% | 55.3% | 80.0% | 60.9% | |
| Sales | 13,434 | 2,329 | 15,763 | 66,340 | 85,780 | 14,137 | 99,917 | 387,390 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -37.1% | 2.1% | -33.4% | -16.6% | -44.5% | -20.0% | -42.0% | -30.2% | |
| % of Total | 15.7% | 44.5% | 17.3% | 37.6% | 18.4% | 44.7% | 20.0% | 39.1% | |
Flash report, June 2020
31 Jul. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decrease 46.0% to 60,738 units in June
On July 30, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for June decreased 46.0% over the previous year to 60,738 units due to coronavirus pandemic. Passenger car production was down 48.2% to 56,594 units and commercial vehicle production was up 23.9% to 4,144 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 24.3% to 156,681 units.
Vehicle exports down 43.8% (y/y) to 51,924 units and domestic sales decreased 56.3% (y/y) to 8,814 units. The percentage of export was 85.5%.
In the first half of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 41.9% (y/y) to 407,778 units. The passenger car production was down 42.8% to 381,357 units, commercial vehicle was down 24.8% to 26,421 units and engines were down 38.8% to 814,957 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "These figures are yet more grim reading for the industry and its workforce, and reveal the difficulties all automotive businesses face as they try to restart while tackling sectoral challenges like no other. Recovery is difficult for all companies, but automotive is unique in facing immense technological shifts, business uncertainty and a fundamental change to trading conditions while dealing with coronavirus. The critical importance of an EU-UK FTA is self-evident for UK Automotive. Our factories were once set to make two million cars in 2020 but could now produce less than half that number, a result of the devastating effects of the pandemic on top of already challenging market conditions and years of Brexit uncertainty. This industry has demonstrated its inherent competitiveness and global excellence over the past decade. Its long-term future now depends on securing a good deal and a long-term strategy that supports an industry on which so many thousands of jobs across the country depend."
UK vehicle production figures
| Jun. 2020 | Jan.-Jun. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 56,594 | 4,144 | 60,738 | 156,681 | 381,357 | 26,421 | 407,778 | 814,957 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -48.2% | 23.9% | -46.0% | -24.3% | -42.8% | -24.8% | -41.9% | -38.8% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 49,924 | 2,000 | 51,924 | 100,342 | 309,011 | 14,613 | 323,624 | 493,907 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -45.0% | 22.7% | -43.8% | -19.9% | -42.1% | -26.0% | -41.5% | -42.3% | |
| % of Total | 88.2% | 48.3% | 85.5% | 64.0% | 81.0% | 55.3% | 79.4% | 60.6% | |
| Sales | 6,670 | 2,144 | 8,814 | 56,339 | 72,346 | 11,808 | 84,154 | 321,050 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -63.8% | 25.0% | -56.3% | -31.1% | -45.7% | -23.3% | -43.4% | -32.4% | |
| % of Total | 11.8% | 51.7% | 14.5% | 36.0% | 19.0% | 44.7% | 20.6% | 39.4% | |
Flash report, May 2020
29 Jun. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decrease 94.8% to 6,124 units in May
On June 26, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for May decreased 94.8% over the previous year to 6,124 units due to coronavirus pandemic. Passenger car production was down 95.4% to 5,314 units and commercial vehicle production was down 61.6% to 810 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 75.0% to 55,836 units.
Vehicle exports down 95.1% (y/y) to 4,611 units and domestic sales decreased 93.5% (y/y) to 1,513 units. The percentage of export was 75.3%.
In the first five months of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 41.1% (y/y) to 347,061 units. The passenger car production was down 41.7% to 324,763 units, commercial vehicle was down 29.8% to 22,298 units and engines were down 41.5% to 658,276 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "May’s figures are yet more evidence of why the UK industry, like its global rivals, needs dedicated support to drive a successful restart. Government assistance so far has been vital in keeping many businesses afloat, but the job isn’t done. Measures to boost cashflow, including additional and tailored finance schemes, tax relief and business rates deferral would deliver immediate results when liquidity is most acute. We have to retain the highly skilled jobs the sector provides but also ensure the business conditions are competitive so we can unlock the investment that will drive long-term recovery - a green recovery - which is inextricably linked the sector’s success."
UK vehicle production figures
| May 2020 | Jan.-May 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 5,314 | 810 | 6,124 | 55,836 | 324,763 | 22,298 | 347,061 | 658,276 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -95.4% | -61.6% | -94.8% | -75.0% | -41.7% | -29.8% | -41.1% | -41.5% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 4,260 | 351 | 4,611 | 37,153 | 259,087 | 12,613 | 271,700 | 393,565 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -95.5% | -63.2% | -95.1% | -72.9% | -41.5% | -30.3% | -41.0% | -46.2% | |
| % of Total | 80.2% | 43.3% | 75.3% | 66.5% | 79.8% | 56.6% | 78.3% | 59.8% | |
| Sales | 1,054 | 459 | 1,513 | 18,683 | 65,676 | 9,685 | 75,361 | 264,711 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -95.2% | -60.3% | -93.5% | -78.5% | -42.8% | -29.2% | -41.3% | -32.7% | |
| % of Total | 19.8% | 56.7% | 24.7% | 33.5% | 20.2% | 43.4% | 21.7% | 40.2% | |
Flash report, April 2020
1 Jun. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decreases 99.7% to 212 units in April
On May 29, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for April decreased 99.7% over the previous year to 212 units due to coronavirus pandemic. Passenger car production was down 99.7% to 197 units and commercial vehicle production was down 99.3% to 15 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 99.5% to 830 units.
Vehicle exports were down 99.7% (y/y) to 152 units and domestic sales decreased 99.6% (y/y) to 60 units. The percentage of export was 76.6%.
In the first four months of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 27.6% (y/y) to 340,937 units. The passenger car production was down 27.6% to 319,449 units, commercial vehicle was down 27.6% to 21,488 units and engines were down 33.4% to 599,793 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "With the UK’s car plants mothballed in April, these figures aren’t surprising but they do highlight the tremendous challenge the industry faces, with revenues effectively slashed to zero last month. Manufacturers are starting to emerge from prolonged shutdown into a very uncertain world and ramping up production will be a gradual process, so we need government to work with us to accelerate this fundamentally strong sector’s recovery, stimulate investment and safeguard jobs. Support to get all businesses through this short-term turmoil will ensure the UK’s many globally-renowned brands can continue to make the products that remain so desirable to consumers the world over and, in turn, help deliver long-term prosperity for Britain."
UK vehicle production figures
| Apr. 2020 | Jan.-Apr. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 197 | 15 | 212 | 830 | 319,449 | 21,488 | 340,937 | 599,793 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -99.7% | -99.3% | -99.7% | -99.5% | -27.6% | -27.6% | -27.6% | -33.4% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 152 | 0 | 152 | 781 | 254,827 | 12,262 | 267,089 | 356,417 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -99.7% | -100.0% | -99.7% | -99.4% | -26.9% | -28.5% | -27.0% | -40.0% | |
| % of Total | 77.2% | 0.0% | 71.7% | 94.1% | 79.8% | 57.1% | 78.3% | 59.4% | |
| Sales | 45 | 15 | 60 | 49 | 64,622 | 9,226 | 73,848 | 243,376 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -99.7% | -99.1% | -99.6% | -99.9% | -30.2% | -26.3% | -29.7% | -20.6% | |
| % of Total | 22.8% | 100.0% | 28.3% | 5.9% | 20.2% | 42.9% | 21.7% | 40.6% | |
Flash report, March 2020
1 May. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decrease 37.9% to 84,058 units in March
On April 30, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for March decreased 37.9% over the previous year to 84,058 units due to coronavirus pandemic. Passenger car production was down 37.6% to 78,767 units and commercial vehicle production was down 41.8% to 5,291 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 40.0% to 146,615 units.
Vehicle exports down 37.9% (y/y) to 64,819 units and domestic sales decreased 37.7% (y/y) to 19,239 units. The percentage of export was 77.1%.
In the first quarter of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 14.3% (y/y) to 340,725 units. The passenger car production was down 13.8% to 319,252 units, commercial vehicle was down 22.0% to 21,473 units and engines were down 17.1% to 598,963 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "UK Automotive is fundamentally strong but, as these figures show, it is being tested like never before, with each week of shutdown costing the sector and economy billions. Government’s emergency measures are helping keep many companies afloat and thousands of people in jobs, but liquidity remains a major concern and will become even more stretched as the industry begins to restart. To get production lines rolling, we need a package of measures that supports the entire industry. We need coordination and collaboration with government, the workforce and wider stakeholders to unlock the sector in a safe and sustainable way. This will include new workplace guidance, additional measures to ease cash-flow and help furloughed colleagues back to work, as well as demand-side measure to help encourage customers back into the market. This should be seen as long-term investment into the underlying competitiveness of an industry critical to the health of the economy and the livelihoods of thousands of households right across the UK. "
UK vehicle production figures
| Mar. 2020 | Jan.-Mar. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 78,767 | 5,291 | 84,058 | 146,615 | 319,252 | 21,473 | 340,725 | 598,963 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -37.6% | -41.8% | -37.9% | -40.0% | -13.8% | -22.0% | -14.3% | -17.1% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 61,798 | 3,021 | 64,819 | 91,314 | 254,675 | 12,262 | 266,937 | 355,636 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -37.8% | -40.6% | -37.9% | -42.4% | -12.6% | -26.3% | -13.3% | -24.0% | |
| % of Total | 78.5% | 57.1% | 77.1% | 62.3% | 79.8% | 57.1% | 78.3% | 59.4% | |
| Sales | 16,969 | 2,270 | 19,239 | 55,301 | 64,577 | 9,211 | 73,788 | 243,327 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -36.8% | -43.4% | -37.7% | -35.7% | -18.2% | -15.4% | -17.8% | -4.6% | |
| % of Total | 21.5% | 42.9% | 22.9% | 37.7% | 20.2% | 42.9% | 21.7% | 40.6% | |
Flash report, February 2020
30 Mar. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decrease 1.7% to 130,151 units in February
On March 27, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for February decreased 1.7% over the previous year to 130,151 units. Passenger car production was down 0.8% to 122,171 units and commercial vehicle production was down 13.6% to 7,980 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 9.3% to 214,155 units.
Vehicle exports down 4.5% (y/y) to 99,700 units and domestic sales increased 8.5% (y/y) to 30,451 units. The percentage of export was 76.6%.
In the first two months of 2020, total vehicle production decreased 2.2% (y/y) to 256,667 units. The passenger car production was down 1.5% to 240,485 units, commercial vehicle was down 12.1% to 16,182 units and engines were down 5.4% to 452,348 units.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "Despite the myriad global challenges the UK automotive industry has faced in recent times, it remains fundamentally strong and February’s figures reflect that. However, these figures also reflect the calm before the storm. With UK car plants now effectively on national shutdown and many global markets closed, the outlook is of deep concern. We wholeheartedly welcome government’s extraordinary package of emergency support for businesses and workers, but this must get through to businesses now. If we’re to keep this sector alive and in a position to help Britain get back on its feet, we urgently need funding to be released, additional measures to ease pressure on cashflow and clarity on how employment support measures will work."
UK vehicle production figures
| Feb. 2020 | Jan.-Feb. 2020 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles(*) | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 122,171 | 7,980 | 130,151 | 214,155 | 240,485 | 16,182 | 256,667 | 452,348 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -0.8% | -13.6% | -1.7% | -9.3% | -1.5% | -12.1% | -2.2% | -5.4% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 94,999 | 4,701 | 99,700 | 123,904 | 192,874 | 9,241 | 202,115 | 264,322 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -3.1% | -26.2% | -4.5% | -21.0% | 0.4% | -19.9% | -0.7% | -14.5% | |
| % of Total | 77.8% | 58.9% | 76.6% | 57.9% | 80.2% | 57.1% | 78.7% | 58.4% | |
| Sales | 27,172 | 3,279 | 30,451 | 90,251 | 47,611 | 6,941 | 54,552 | 188,026 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | 7.8% | 14.6% | 8.5% | 14.0% | -8.6% | -0.9%(*) | -7.4% | 11.2% | |
| % of Total | 22.2% | 41.1% | 23.4% | 42.1% | 19.8% | 42.9% | 21.3% | 41.6% | |
* Based on original data sources
January 2020
28 Feb. 2020
*There are cases where recently released data and detailed information in the database do not match up for reasons including different information sources, and discrepancies between preliminary reports and confirmed data.
UK vehicle production decrease 2.7% to 126,516 units in January
On February 27, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) announced that the number of UK vehicle production for January decreased 2.7% over the previous year to 126,516 units. Passenger car production was down 2.1% to 118,314 units and commercial vehicle production was down 10.7% to 8,202 units year over year (y/y). Production of engines was down by 1.7% to 238,193 units.
Vehicle exports up 3.2% (y/y) to 102,410 units and domestic sales decreased 21.9% (y/y) to 24,106 units. The percentage of export was 80.9%.
Mike Hawes, CEO of SMMT said "Exports are the bedrock for UK car manufacturing so a rise in January exports is welcome following recent declining demand in overseas markets. These figures, however, still give great cause for concern, with another month of falling car production driven by a lack of confidence and corresponding weak demand in the UK. The upcoming Budget is an opportunity for the government to provide supportive measures to stimulate the market, but the biggest boost would be the agreement of an ambitious free trade deal with Europe. This would end the ongoing uncertainty and help the UK to recover its hard-won reputation as a great place for automotive investment."
UK vehicle production figures
| Jan. 2020 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Cars | Commercial Vehicles | Total | Engine | ||
| Total | 118,314 | 8,202 | 126,516 | 238,193 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -2.1% | -10.7% | -2.7% | -1.7% | |
| Breakdown | Export | 97,870 | 4,540 | 102,410 | 140,418 |
| Y-o-Y(%) | 4.1% | -12.2% | 3.2% | -7.9% | |
| % of Total | 82.7% | 55.4% | 80.9% | 59.0% | |
| Sales | 20,444 | 3,662 | 24,106 | 97,775 | |
| Y-o-Y(%) | -23.9% | -8.8% | -21.9% | 8.8% | |
| % of Total | 17.3% | 44.6% | 19.1% | 41.0% | |